What to Expect

From the design of specialized tools to the automation of factories, manufacturing engineering students major in cutting-edge manufacturing techniques.

Amy Ingram estimates that she spent four to six hours a day, seven days a week doing homework when she took manufacturing engineering. That might sound like a lot, but it wasn't so bad. "Since most things are done in groups, it becomes very social," she says.

She says a typical day involves four to six hours of class time. The rest of your day is spent meeting with people and working on assignments.

But it can't be all work and no play. "You have to know what you enjoy so when you do have time off you can do something you find relaxing and fun," notes Ingram.

Graeme Lake also majored in manufacturing engineering. "[In] my third year, I needed to study every day after dinner until I went to sleep, then study during the day on Saturday and usually all of Sunday," he says.

"I had time to go out at least once a week, and I had time to play sports three or more times a week for an hour or so each time."

How to Prepare

"I think that the most relevant course would be physics," says Ingram. "Overall math skills are required, but the problem-solving skills you get in physics are crucial."

It's helpful to be computer-literate before you start, but don't worry if you're not. "It is easy to learn, since you don't have a choice!" says Ingram.

Take any technology courses offered in high school, such as auto mechanics, electronics, drafting, shop and most importantly, math, says Lake.

He also recommends looking for a summer job in a machine shop or any technically demanding job. "Even a job on an assembly line. These jobs will give you experiences in technical fields and union environments."